The WWE Universe is still buzzing after Cody Rhodes’ recent comments about The Rock’s “Final Boss” persona, with the Undisputed WWE Champion declaring that fans have only seen the beginning of what could be one of the most transformative characters in modern wrestling history. Speaking on the All The Smoke podcast, Rhodes didn’t just praise The Rock—he placed him on his personal Mount Rushmore of wrestling legends, citing the impact of The Final Boss character and hinting at a much larger story yet to unfold.
The Final Boss: A New Chapter for The Rock
When Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson returned to WWE in early 2024, few expected the seismic shift that would follow. Initially slated to main event WrestleMania 40 against Roman Reigns, The Rock’s involvement sparked intense fan backlash, especially after Cody Rhodes won the Royal Rumble and was widely expected to headline the show. The controversy forced WWE to pivot creatively, leading to The Rock’s shocking heel turn and the birth of “The Final Boss”—a character unlike anything he’d portrayed before.
According to a WWE insider, “The Final Boss was born out of necessity, but it quickly became something bigger. The Rock wanted to do more than just rehash his old persona. He wanted to challenge himself and the audience, and that’s exactly what he did.”
Rhodes, who was at the center of the storyline, has since reflected on the impact of The Rock’s new character. “He came back to a very tumultuous WWE, a year or so ago, and decided, ‘Nope, I’m not gonna deal with that. I’m instead gonna create a new character even though I’m already one of the greatest characters ever, that being The Final Boss,’” Rhodes said on All The Smoke. “We’ve just scratched the surface on The Final Boss. There’s something incredibly special there.”
The Mount Rushmore Moment
Rhodes’ Mount Rushmore of wrestling legends includes his father Dusty Rhodes, Triple H, and The Rock. For Rhodes, legacy isn’t just about what you do during your active career—it’s about what you leave behind. “Your legacy a lot of times depends on your last chapter and not always your active chapter,” he explained. “Did you offer anything after you left?”
For Rhodes, The Rock’s Final Boss character is a prime example of a wrestler reinventing himself in his final chapter. “He’s on there Mount Rushmore-wise,” Rhodes said. “He’s put the entire WWE on his back.”
Sources close to Cody Rhodes revealed that he’s been deeply inspired by The Rock’s willingness to take risks and push boundaries, even at the height of his Hollywood career. “Cody sees The Rock as a mentor figure, someone who’s not afraid to evolve and challenge the status quo,” said the source. “That’s why he’s so excited about what The Final Boss could become.”
The Road to WrestleMania 41
The storyline between Cody Rhodes and The Final Boss reached a fever pitch on the February 28, 2025, episode of SmackDown, when The Rock appeared via video with a final plea to Rhodes. “Cody can have everything he ever wanted, just as long as he doesn’t break The Rock’s heart and agrees to sell his soul,” The Rock said, leaving Rhodes speechless and the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats.
The offer, which Rhodes confirmed “still stands,” is not about the WWE Title or a match—it’s about legacy, power, and the price of success. “With The Final Boss and Cody Rhodes, it’s not about the WWE Title,” The Rock explained. “It’s not about having a match. It’s not about punching or kicking. It’s about what you’re willing to sacrifice.”
As WrestleMania 41 approaches, the tension between Rhodes and The Final Boss continues to build. Will Rhodes accept The Rock’s offer and join forces with The Final Boss, or will he forge his own path and risk everything to protect his soul?
The Final Boss: What’s Next?
Despite The Rock’s current absence from WWE television—due to his commitments to Hollywood projects like the upcoming Martin Scorsese film and The Smashing Machine—Rhodes believes the Final Boss character is far from finished. “We’ve just scratched the surface,” he said. “There’s something incredibly special there.”
A WWE insider confirmed that The Rock’s return is being carefully planned, with creative teams eager to explore the full potential of The Final Boss. “The Rock has always been a master storyteller, and The Final Boss is his most ambitious character yet,” said the insider. “When he does come back, it’s going to be huge.”
Fans are already speculating about what The Final Boss could become. Will he continue to manipulate and control the WWE landscape from behind the scenes? Will he form a new faction or alliance? Or will he finally step back into the ring for one last showdown?
The Legacy of The Final Boss
For Cody Rhodes, The Rock’s Final Boss character is more than just a storyline—it’s a symbol of what wrestling can be when it pushes boundaries and takes risks. “He’s on my Mount Rushmore,” Rhodes said. “He’s put the entire WWE on his back.”
As the road to WrestleMania 41 unfolds, one thing is clear: The Final Boss is not finished. And if Cody Rhodes is right, we’ve only just begun to see what The Rock can do.
Do you agree with Cody Rhodes putting The Rock on his Mount Rushmore? And do you think The Final Boss gimmick has more to offer when The Rock returns? Let us know in the comments below.
Sources: All The Smoke podcast, WWE insider, Wrestling News, Fightful, Ringside News
